Bohol marks 172nd year with call to honor local heritage

Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos (center, holding a plaque) served as the keynote speaker during the 172nd Bohol Day celebration at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, honoring Bohol’s rich heritage, unity, and enduring legacy. —Photo courtesy of Helen Castaño TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado called on Boholanos to continue to honor their heritage, strengthen unity, and build a better future for the province as Bohol marked its 172nd founding anniversary on Wednesday. Delivering his commemorative message during the Bohol Day celebration at the Bohol Cultural Center, Aumentado described Bohol as more than just a province or a tourist destination, but a place that every Boholano proudly calls home. “While history tells us when Bohol became a province, it is love that reminds us why Bohol has always been our home,” the governor said. Article continues after this advertisement READ: Bohol marks 171st founding year honoring culture, growth The celebration was held in accordance with Republic Act No. 7683, which declares July 22 of every year a Special Non-Working Day in the Province of Bohol and the City of Tagbilaran in commemoration of Bohol Day. Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos served as the keynote speaker, while the provincial government also recognized recipients of the Governor’s Excellence and Special Citation Awards for their contributions to the province. In his address, Aumentado reflected on Bohol’s natural beauty, rich history, and enduring values, saying the province has long been a place where dreams are nurtured, traditions are preserved, and communities remain connected despite the passage of time. He said Bohol’s landscapes, seas, and skies continue to inspire Boholanos to excel and bring honor to the province wherever they are based. Article continues after this advertisement The governor also emphasized that the province’s achievements are rooted not only in individual efforts but in the unity and resilience of its people. “Every victory we have achieved is not only the result of our individual efforts but also of our unity as one people,” he said. Article continues after this advertisement Drawing inspiration from the spirit of the Sandugo (Blood Compact), Aumentado said the values of friendship, trust, confidence, and peace continue to guide Bohol as it creates greater opportunities for its people while remaining faithful to the principles that have shaped generations of Boholanos. Although 172 years have passed since Bohol was separated from Cebu and became a distinct province, Aumentado said the determination of Boholanos to preserve their heritage and leave a meaningful legacy remains unwavering. READ: Aumentado: Central Visayas is fastest-growing economy in PH He concluded by urging Boholanos, wherever they may be, to carry the province in their hearts through service, pride, and love for their homeland. Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful. “May our love for this province be reflected not only in the pride we carry, but also in the service we render and the legacy we leave behind. And wherever life may lead us, may we always carry Bohol in our hearts, just as Bohol will always welcome us home,” he said./coa